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The technical committee for the 33rd Gatineau Loppet has
decided to set up a contingency course because of last night’s rain and today’s sunshine, which
have melted some of the snow.

The 51 km classic style course will now be a 50 km one, and the 31 km classic style course
will become a 28 km one. The 16 km course will also be changed to ensure the best possible
conditions for the skiers. No change is expected to the 5 km course.

Since we expect to reach the freezing point around 8 p.m., we will have to wait until midnight
to start the work because of the time needed to get the snow ready for grooming. After that, we
expect the conditions to be fast on a hard base, which should keep the adrenalin pumping.

As far as the Sunday course conditions go, the decisions will be make on Saturday, and the focus
will remain on ensuring the best courses for the race participants.

The registration booth will open tonight at 5:30 p.m. at the Ski Show, at École secondaire Mont-
Bleu (389 boulevard Cité-des-Jeunes, Gatineau). Registration will be open all weekend for the
different races.